Forecast models suggest increasing snow cover in the next 10 days

It’s that time of year when we watch the weather maps for snow. With each new forecast model run, various models shift between cold air pulses and possible Alberta clipper-style snowfalls embedded in the northwest flow pattern.

These minor-to-moderate short waves are harder to detect than big winter storms that come from the south, but the chances for snow are there over the next 10 days.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s six to 10-day precipitation outlook favors normal to above-normal precipitation across Minnesota:

The Canadian model picks up one such wave zipping southeast across Minnesota next Wednesday.

Don’t take this map as gospel on timing and location but rather an indication of possible clipper systems next week:

The American and European models also produce snow over the next 10 days. Snowfall output is highest across the northeastern half of Minnesota, but most of the state could see a coating of white in the next 10 days.

Here’s the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts model snowfall output through 10 days:

The American Global Forecast System model is more (too?) aggressive with snowfall potential through 10 days:

There is lower confidence in being precise about how much snow could fall in the next 10 days, but temperatures will likely be below freezing most of the time. So any precipitation that occurs will likely fall as snow.

So any clippers that sail southeast across Minnesota will likely lay down a fluffy snowy coating. Snowfall enthusiasts may be happy over the next 10 days, especially across northeastern Minnesota.

Stay tuned.